My initial reaction was that my jaw fell, my mouth opened and I do believe that I may actually have started to drool. This was due to a combination of disbelief at her affrontery and equal disbelief at her er..frontery.

I snapped my mouth closed. I frowned to disguise my disquiet.

"That is really some offer" I said, lamely. I went on; "I really do think that this is one situation where I need a little time to consider. I have, um, not kept abreast..." I winced. "I have not kept up with property values and due to my absence also have no idea of the state of Slothland's books. Perhaps you would care to come back this evening. I can have cariad conjure something wonderful from the kitchen-she really is a great cook-and the three of us can sit down and discuss matters. Say, 7?"

Miss Michebe stood. It took several seconds for me to focus my gaze up several inches to her eyes. She appeared amused. "Very well" She said over her shoulder as she swept out. "I will see you then."